How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
The NHS is not able to diagnose ADHD in many patients due to the long waiting lists. Some patients are desperate for answers and will pay private companies to provide them.
A recent BBC Panorama investigation revealed that many private clinics were giving inaccurate assessments. This has sparked concerns and controversy over the quality of care patients receive.
Diagnosis
In order to get diagnosed with ADHD it is necessary to undergo a full exam by psychiatrist. Although some people have their diagnosis made by psychologists or other mental health professionals, a Psychiatrist is the only person who can provide you with a formally recognised diagnosis for medication. This is important since a formal diagnosis is required to gain access to certain workplace protections, like flexible working, and to get access to NHS medications.
The symptoms of ADHD are categorized into three main categories: hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattention. While everyone has certain characteristics occasionally however, those with ADHD tend to exhibit these symptoms in a more severe form. Hyperactive behavior can include fidgeting or being restless. It may also include problems with planning and organizing. Impulsive behavior could include impulsive purchases without considering the consequences or rushing into situations without proper planning. Inattentional ADD can be identified by difficulty in staying focused or concentrating, procrastination, a lack of deadlines or an inability ability to think ahead. Combined ADHD is the most common form of the condition and involves problems with both inattentive and impulsive/hyperactive symptoms.
Many adults are hesitant to pursue an assessment. However, this is important to receive the support and treatment that you require. A diagnosis of ADHD may bring you relief and clarity in your life. It can also help you understand your symptoms and help you find strategies and tools to deal with them. After being diagnosed, many of our patients claim that their lives have changed for the better.
The assessment process will involve a conversation about your symptoms and how they impact your life, completing the DIVA online test, and an extensive interview with a clinical psychologist. Our psychiatrists have extensive experience in diagnosing ADHD in adults and are skilled to make you feel comfortable.
The Assessment
You will need to undergo an extensive assessment as an adult with ADHD before being diagnosed. The assessment must be carried out by a healthcare professional who is an expert in ADHD. This could be a psychiatrist, psychologist or specialist nurse (though a nurse is not qualified to prescribe medication). It is not important where they are in the hierarchy of healthcare professionals, as it is their specific skills and knowledge that defines them as specialist.
A specialist will conduct a structured interview to gather as much information as possible about your symptoms, how they impact your life and relationships and the length of time you've been experiencing them for. They will also go over your medical background and ask questions about family mental health history as well. The specialist will then consider all the information gathered from various sources and determine an appropriate diagnosis based on American Psychiatric Association's diagnostic criteria.
During the process of assessment you will be required to take tests that are designed to assess your symptoms and determine the impact they have on your daily life. These can include questionnaires on your symptoms, memory and inkblots as well as timed tasks or puzzles. They also consider any other conditions you might be suffering from as they may have similar symptoms as those associated with ADHD.
private adhd assessment adults , friend or partner will be questioned during the assessment. This is to confirm your ADHD symptoms and to determine if they affect your work and relationships.
The expert will be able provide you with a thorough explanation of the results of the evaluation, as well as the treatment options available. This may include a shared-care arrangement with your GP (where you only pay the NHS prescription fee). The doctor will explain their holistic recommendations for your treatment and will discuss any medication they believe is appropriate.
Treatment
Adults suffering from ADHD might have difficulty obtaining a diagnosis. The first step is to have an assessment in private by a specialist physician who can confirm or deny the diagnosis. They are typically psychiatrists with years of experience in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. The doctor will also be able inform you if you are suffering from other mental health issues that may be the cause of your symptoms, or if your symptoms are caused by the medication you are on.
Once the assessment is completed, your clinician will discuss your results and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. Depending on your needs, this could involve beginning psychotherapy or medication. Many people suffering from ADHD receive stimulant medications to help improve their symptoms. These drugs are believed to increase the amount of brain's natural chemical messengers like norepinephrine and dopamine which play a crucial role in the development of attention and movement. When the medication is used frequently, many people notice that their symptoms get better quickly and efficiently.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from therapy that focuses on improving their self-esteem and relationships. This can include practical strategies that reduce frustration and improve their ability manage time and tasks. Certain people with ADHD also benefit from dietary changes, which can aid in improving their concentration and energy levels.
Some adults are more likely to struggle to be diagnosed with ADHD than others, particularly when they belong to a minority group. This is due to the fact that some medical professionals have preconceived ideas about what ADHD is like. These people are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD that is not accurate, or even not treated.
Finding affordable treatment and evaluations can be a challenge, particularly when you don't have insurance. However, many hospital-based clinics have specialized ADHD clinics that take financial concerns into consideration. These clinics are also more likely to take advantage of a variety of insurance plans and have interns or residents in training that can provide treatment under mentor supervision.
Support
People suffering from ADHD struggle to understand the impact their conditions have on their lives. They don't always realize that their difficulties in organizing, planning and completing tasks can cause issues at work or in relationships. People with high IQs are more likely to be unaware of the impact of ADHD. They may develop coping mechanisms that enable them to perform below their potential. However, these could lead to other problems like anxiety, depression and alcohol or drug dependence.
This article highlights the importance of seeking expert diagnosis and treatment for ADHD. There are long waiting lists for NHS treatment which makes it difficult for a lot of people to get the treatment they need. Some pay for private healthcare, but have no assurance that their physician will be willing to sign a "shared care agreement' that allows them to return to the NHS for follow up treatment following a private diagnosis of ADHD. They could be required to continue paying for private medications, CBT therapy or even more expensive coaching services.
Always verify that the health professional you're working with has worked with adults who have ADHD. You can do this by checking at their website or calling them to ensure that they have the experience you need. You can also inquire if they have dealt with comorbid disorders (disorders that are co-occurring with ADHD).
It is important to choose the right psychiatrist or therapy, since they are the ones to prescribe medication if necessary. Look for a doctor who has completed specialized training in adult ADHD. You can do this by contacting your local support group for adults with ADHD, or the Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) organization to find an expert in your area.
When choosing a therapist or psychiatrist, you must also take into account your own personal preferences. For instance, some individuals prefer someone who is of their gender or ethnicity. You may also prefer to work with a person who is LGBTQIA+ or has experience working with clients with kinks.